august 2012
hometown
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scrap
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ing tips f or begin ners
Words Of Wisdom for a New School Year South Bay Educators Give Their Perspectives On The Start Of The School Year
www.myhometownchulavista.com
Business highlight: amazing new me resident spotlight: the kunz FAMILY
august 2012
hometown
local getaways
contents
from the editor... It is always surprising to me to hear people talk about how much they hated school growing up. Even now, after more years than I care to remember have passed, I still look back fondly on my time in school. Whether it’s elementary, junior high or high school, I recall having a great time at each stop. And that continued even into college. I’ve always enjoyed the chance to learn about new subjects, meet new people, rise to the challenge of a test or term paper and then receive a formal review of my work. I know not everyone is “good at school”, but I also welcomed the daily meeting up with friends. School provided an opportunity to build connections with some great people who continue to be close friends long after we have walked the campus for the last time. With school back in session for another year for most of the youngsters in our community, My Hometown Chula Vista thought it would be wise to focus on several schoolrelated topics in our August issue. We called on several local educators to get their advice on how to make the most of the educational experience and you can read their words of wisdom in the following pages. Their sound advice is likely to benefit not only local students, but many parents as well. Even our On Topic piece has a school-related theme as a new contributor shares some of the best educational-based apps out there. Granted, not everyone is thrilled about being back in classrooms, but with the right mindset the opportunity exists to make this a year of great growth and personal development no matter grade level you are. In addition to thinking about all things school-related, the My Hometown Chula Vista crew is also looking ahead to our upcoming features and we would like to ask for your assistance. Our October issue will include a feature on favorite community water holes – the places you and your friends meet to enjoy a favorite drink and bite to eat, relax and catch up. We’ve got our usual spots, but want to know where do you go. Share your hot spots by emailing me at mike@fountaininc.com and we’ll include many of them in a couple months.
Michael Minjares, Editor of My Hometown
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august 2012
What’s inside
feature
Words Of Wisdom for a New School Year Page 14
community news Chula Vista Joins Grade-Level Reading Communities Network New Cancer Center Opens at Sharp Chula Vista
8 12
lifestyle Scrapbooking - Tips for Beginners
18
community calendar Local Events and Activities
21
on topic Learning...There’s An App for That!
22
resident spotlight The Kunz Family
24
school news Southwestern College is on the Move
25
business highlight Amazing New Me
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BRAVO
Look what great things your community is up to...
Bravo to Sammy Stone of Rolling Hills Ranch for being the first Chula Vista World Champion 2012 in ATA Martial arts Xtreme Forms for boys 8 and under. This division is a compilation of creative moves using traditional martial art forms, acrobatic trick moves and gymnastics. Sammy first began his training at Pride Martial Arts when he was 4 years old. He has been training extremely hard this past year with his instructor and mentor Carlos Aguilar of Kick Force ATA Martial Arts academy in San Diego to reach his goals of earning the state champ and World Champ titles in extreme martial arts.
Southwestern College ASTRA Club celebrated the March 2 event with books, party hats, and cake with the children at the Mi Escuelita Therapeutic Preschool. The preschool is for children affected by family violence, and it provides specialized services for three- to five-year-olds and their families. To the “Sidewalk CPR” campaign for teaching CPR to 266 people at the South Bay Family YMCA on June 7. As one of the top locations in this countywide effort, the local YMCA saw kids, teenagers and adults learning the fundamentals of CPR. The campaign recognized national CPR awareness week driven by the American Heart Association and then regionally by our San Diego County EMS and San Diego Project Heartbeat. Locally, this event was sponsored by Chula Vista Fire Department, Chula Vista Fire Department Explorers, Chula Vista Firefighter’s Foundation, the YMCA, and California Department of Corrections.
To Ryan Lohmeyer, a Lutheran High School San Diego student and EastLake resident, on placing 15th at the North American Irish Dance Championships held July 3-7 in Chicago, IL. Thousands of dancers from around the world competed in solo and team competitions at this annual event. Ryan has been a student at the Malone Academy of Irish Dance for over 10 years and has competed around the world including at the World Irish Dance Championships held in Belfast, Northern Ireland this year. To Southwestern College’s ASTRA Club on receiving the ASTRA Service Award for bringing Dr. Seuss’ “Read Across America” program to Chula Vista preschoolers. The “Read Across America” program is a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on Dr. Seuss’ birthday. The
To Kathy Tyner, Southwestern College’s Vice Presdient of Academic Affairs, on being named Science Educator of the Year by the San Diego Science Educators Association at the 26th annual ceremony held in June. The association honored Tyner for her role in creating, nurturing and expanding the Science, Mathematics, Articulation, Resource, Technology (SMART) conference for science and math educators in grades 7 through community college.
If you would like to contribute to Bravo, send a quick note to My Hometown’s editor at mike@fountain-inc.com and we’ll do our best to put your good-news announcement in an upcoming issue. Submissions should be sent by the 10th of the month. Published by Fountain Media Group, Inc 1501 San Elijo Rd, Suite 104-202 San Marcos, CA 92078 (800) 497-1309 x701 www.fountain-inc.com
4 my hometown august 2012
Publisher Tim Minjares tim@fountain-inc.com
Editorial Mike Minjares mike@fountain-inc.com
Sales Melissa Granados meilssa@fountain-inc.com
Production AJ Moreno intern@fountain-inc.com
Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. Fountain Media Group, Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers.
on your doorstep Cruise for Cause Back Again at Otay Ranch Town Center
Chula Vista Lemon Festival – Sunday, August 12
Chula Vista’s Otay Ranch Town Center will once again be the spot this summer to see the coolest cars and tricked out rides as Xavier the X-Man’s 10th Annual Cruise for the Cause Blood & Bone Marrow Drive Car Show sets up shop on Saturday, August 11 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Popular local radio personality Xavier the X-Man of MAGIC 92.5 will be on hand broadcasting live and encouraging the community to stop by to donate blood and get on the National Bone Marrow registry. Last year, the annual community event drew more than 350 participating cars to the show. Once again, part of the proceeds from the event will benefit the Emilio Nares Foundation – a local organization that provides information and support for parents of children with cancer. The free event also includes great entertainment and a fun kids’ zone. For more information go online to www.magic925.com.
The annual Lemon Festival – celebrating Chula Vista’s heritage as the “Lemon Capital of the World” – returns to Third Avenue on Sunday, August 12. From E Street to Roosevelt, the downtown street will be transformed into a fun-filled festival with activities and attractions for children and adults alike. The wonderful community event features terrific live entertainment on three stages, a beer garden, handcrafters, international food, a kids’ fun zone and lemons aplenty. Don’t miss the second annual Lemon Fantasy Hair Competition and the new Health & Fitness area at E Street. The free event runs from 11:00 a.m to 7:00 p.m. For more information go online to www.thirdavenuevillage.com
Village Vibes Concert Series Kicks Off Sept. 2 The Village Vibes Concert Series, presented by the Third Avenue Village Association, begins its weekly performances with the Bayou Brothers on Sunday, September 2. The free concert series runs from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. each Sunday in September and features a variety of music styles to please all kinds of musical tastes. Each concert takes place at Chula Vista’s Memorial Park at 373 Park Way. For more information and to view the intriguing line-up of performing groups, visit www.thirdavenuevillage.com
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on your doorstep
march 2012
hometown
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Via Lago Takes Part in Dollar A Dish Campaign
Follow My Hometown magazine on Facebook face b ook /myh om e tow n chul avi s ta
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Throughout the month of August, Via Lago Tratoria by Busalacchi’s is participating in the Dollar A Dish Fundraiser for the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. The local restaurant will donate a dollar every time the featured “Food 4 Kids Dish” is sold throughout the entire month. Featuring 40+ San Diego restaurants, the Dollar a Dish campaign raises funds for the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program. This vital program provides backpacks full of nutritious, child-friendly food to chronically hungry elementary school children who are receiving free meals at school during the week, but show signs of chronic hunger on Monday morning. Some of these children are returning to school on Monday not having eaten since Friday’s lunch. Since starting the program in 2008 with just 75 students from two schools, the Food Bank has grown the program to include 30 schools and 1,275 students in 10 different school districts throughout San Diego County for the 2012-2013 school year. However, despite the growth there are still waiting lists at participating school as well as new schools who are anxious to join the program. Dollar A Dish and Via Lago are making it easy for you to help – just stop by for a great meal and you’ll be helping feed hungry kids in our community when you do!
on your doorstep 2012 Chula Vista Challenge – August 12
Local Charter School On The Move
Featuring an Olympic distance Triathlon, Duathlon and Kids Race, the 2012 Chula Vista Challenge offers a variety of events for the athletically inclined. Described as the most scenic and challenging Olympic distance triathlon course in San Diego County, the course will stretch from the Bay to the rolling hills and trails overlooking Otay Lakes and then through the Olympic Training Center. The course is a closed, safe and USAT sanctioned race. More specifically, the Triathlon consists of 1.5K swim, 40K bike and 10K run. The Duathlon includes a 5K run, 40K bike and 10K run. Chula Vista Challenge participants will enjoy a postrace fiesta, awards, a technical t-shirt and goodie bag. Registration closes August 10 and runs $130 for the Triathlon and $120 for the Duathlon. For more information or to register, visit chulavistachallenge.com
After three years of renting space at Mater Dei High School and finding ways to provide a quality program with the numerous budget cuts, Leonardo da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School (LdVCS) is on the move this summer. LdVCS is a K-6 elementary school with a health and science focus where value is placed on developing the skills, talents and interests of the whole child. LdVCS uses Project-Based Learning to engage students in authentic cross-curricular learning experiences, and as a health sciences school, a major part of the school’s mission is to create “health literate� students who exhibit knowledge, skills and behaviors critical to healthy living. Beginning in August 2012, LdVCS will move to 229 East Naples in Chula Vista. Visit http://davincicharter.org for more information.
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on your doorstep
Chula Vista Joins 124 Communities in Launch of Grade-Level Reading Communities Network Chula Vista recently became a charter member of the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading Communities Network, a national movement of local leaders, nonprofits and foundations putting a stake in the ground on third-grade reading. The founding communities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; representing 34 states, 350 school districts, and 8 million students â&#x20AC;&#x201C; submitted action plans in March laying out how they would overcome the challenges that keep many low-income children from learning to read well. Based on the strength of its plan, Chula Vista was recognized as a finalist for the All-America City Award that went to 14 communities in July. The city was also honored as a Community Solutions Pacesetter for its ongoing work. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To have Chula Vistaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan make it to the finals for the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading and to have it nominated for Pacesetter Honors for addressing chronic absenteeism
demonstrates that our community is focused on the right issues to improve student performance early in their education careers,â&#x20AC;? said Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Education is quite possibly the greatest economic development issue of our time and our nation needs to rally around initiatives that support teachers and students.â&#x20AC;? The launch of the network came as more than 500 community members, funders, nonprofit leaders, and state and federal policymakers gath-
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ered in Denver to discuss solutions and strategies for closing achievement gaps and reducing dropout rates. The communities agreed to work on three key challenges that prevent children from reading well by third grade: chronic absence in the early grades, summer learning loss, and a lack of school readiness. As a charter member of the network, Chula Vista will have access to an online help desk, peer-learning opportunities, meetings with national experts and policymakers, and a foundation registry designed to expand and replicate successful programs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The launch of the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading Communities Network represents a tremendous investment of time, funds, goodwill, and the belief that together we can do better for our children,â&#x20AC;? said Ralph Smith, the managing director of the Campaign and a senior vice president at the Annie E. Casey Foundation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;More than 1,800 nonprofits across the country have already been deeply involved and we look forward to many more communities and organizations joining us as we build a national movement to ensure that all students have the supports they need to be reading at grade level by the end of third grade.â&#x20AC;? The Campaign began in February 2011 as a collaboration among foundations and nonprofits intent on increasing the number of low-income children who read on grade-level by the end of third grade. Last summer, the National Civic League joined the effort, announcing that the 2012 All-America City awards would be based on a communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan for improving early literacy. my.
on your doorstep CV Rotary Wine & Food Festival
Community Bike Ride Around San Diego Bay The 5th Annual Bike The Bay bike ride – set for Sunday, August 26 – will see riders of all levels of riding ability experiencing a scenic bayside ride and a once-ayear opportunity to ride over the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge. Bike The Bay supports local bicycling and raises funds for the The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition, www. sdcbc.org, which works to make bicycling better for all in San Diego. This event features individuals, families, corporate teams and the serious and not so serious bike rider. The 25-mile route passes through the cities of San Diego, Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista and National City and finishes at Embarcadero Mariana Park South with a festive celebration with food, entertainment and a Karl Strauss beer garden. Registration and other details can be found at www.bikethebay.net/
The 10th Annual Chula Vista Rotary Wine & Food Event, the local service club’s major fundraiser, will be on Saturday, August 25, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., at the Otay Ranch Town Center. New Club President Michael Monaco will be on hand as well as many local community leaders to enjoy a fun evening. Proceeds from this event help numerous local charities and organizations like: South Bay YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, Christmas in October, The Ronald McDonald House, college scholarships to Chula Vista High School students, and Chula Vista Veterans Home, to name a few. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at www.mcfarlanepromotions. com, at the door the day of the event, or from any Chula Vista Rotarian. The ticket covers unlimited samplings of nearly 50 food, wine, beer and spirit vendors. Visit www.chulavistarotary.org for more information.
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on your doorstep National Night Out Event – Tuesday, August 7 The entire Chula Vista community is invited to join the Chula Vista Police Department, Public Safety Partners and the community organizations that help keep our neighborhoods safe at the National Night Out 2012 event on Tuesday, August 7. Taking place at the Chula Vista Police Headquarters at 315 Fourth Avenue from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., the event provides an excellent opportunity to meet your neighbors and the officers who serve you. National Night Out will feature a police open house, guided facility tours, free ID kits for children, games, crime prevention information and a chance to win LOJACK for your car. Also on hand will be some of the local U.S. Olympic athletes and free food and drink. Last year’s National Night Out campaign involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. In all, over 37 million people participated in last year’s National Night Out event. For more information, visit www.chulavistapd.org or call (619) 409-3898.
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on your doorstep
Douglas & Nancy Barnhart Cancer Center at Sharp Chula Vista Opens in South Bay
The new Douglas & Nancy Barnhart Cancer Center at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center and Medical Office Plaza officially opened its doors last month, bringing to the South Bay a $36 million, 45,000-sq.-ft. facility unlike any other in the region. An invitation-only dedication and community open house were held over two days and attended by nearly 1,000 people, including community leaders, government officials, philanthropists, physicians, Sharp representatives, staff and patients. Guests toured the Barnhart Cancer Center and witnessed its state-of-theart technology, unique elements of healing and extraordinary level of care. “The Barnhart Cancer Center was designed with patients in mind,” said Pablo Velez, R.N., Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Sharp Chula Vista. “With the most advanced technology available in the region and a peaceful environment with gardens, natural light and comforting touches, it truly is a place for healing.” At the open house, guests enjoyed visits with the hospital’s therapy pets, aromatherapy, an arts and crafts station where they could make bookmarks to be given to the Center’s first patients, a parfait bar featuring cancer-fighting toppings, and more. On display was the Center’s technology, the hallmark of which is TrueBeam™ radiotherapy. 12 my hometown august 2012
Faster, more powerful and more accurate than any other technology currently available, TrueBeam is optimized to destroy cancer and preserve healthy or critical organs with exceptional precision and speed that shorten treatment times for patients. With TrueBeam, new treatments on even the most complex types of cancer are possible. “Offering TrueBeam puts the Cancer Center on par with the world’s leading cancer care destinations,” Velez added. “This is a tremendous investment for the South Bay community.” Additional elements of the facility include thoughtful touches like a private entrance for returning patients, soothing décor, and a rooftop terrace where patients can receive infusion therapy in the open air. In addition, the Center’s radiation treatment suites are the only ones in the country known to offer floor-to-ceiling windows with garden views. Sharp Chula Vista is well known for its array of cancer support services, which include patient navigation, pet therapy, and support groups. The Barnhart Cancer Center’s larger space will allow for the hospital’s comprehensive cancer services to be offered all under one roof. The Center’s first patients will be treated by the end of the summer. Funding for the Barnhart Cancer Center came from a $15.5 million commitment from Sharp HealthCare, with the Sharp HealthCare Foundation dedicated to raising $3.4 million in philanthropic support. A partnership with the facility’s builder, Makena Medical Buildings Chula Vista, LLC, provided the remaining financial support. In addition, a generous $1 million gift from Makena Principal and philanthropist Douglas Barnhart and wife, Nancy, made the facility a reality. “We’re fortunate to have partners as giving and passionate as Doug and Nancy, who truly believe in the impact this facility will have on cancer care in San Diego,” said Bill Littlejohn, Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the Sharp HealthCare Foundation. my.
For more information about the new Barnhart Cancer Center at Sharp Chula Vista, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277) or visit www.sharp.com/chulavista.
Spring Fever
Words Of Wisdom For a New School Year With many local students already back at school for another year of academic and personal growth, My Hometown Chula Vista thought it would be smart to check in with a couple of South Bay educators to get their perspectives on the start of the school year.
august 2012 my hometown 15
education
Eric Banatao, Brandon Fuentes and Elaine ElfanteLeano represent experienced voices when it comes to this community’s schools. Each of them bring a similar passion for educating students and making a positive difference in their lives that seems to represent a large majority of the teachers, staff and administrators in charge of leading our neighborhood schools. As Principal at EastLake Elementary School, Banatao oversees the on-going
development of some of the youngest students in the area. With outstanding teachers carrying out the day-to-day work of assisting students with their learning, Banatao has time to focus on a group that also plays a major role in the success of students at his and other schools – the parents. Banatao said he has seen how excellent home-to-school and school-to-home communication can help all students.
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He offered some specific recommendations and suggestions for helping parents become partners in the education of their student. Banatao says: In regards to back-to-school tips, I’d like to encourage parents to be involved and connected to their school as a classroom/lunch-time volunteer, PTA member, or by serving on parent/school governance committees; to be communicative with their child’s teacher (by sharing email addresses, for example, and attending Curriculum Nights); to be a school partner at home by checking backpack mail and anticipating homework and reinforcing school norms/expectations at home by knowing school expectations/rules; and to consider school attendance and its monitoring as a family priority (appointments/vacations during the school day/year can negatively impact student performance). Over at Olympian High School, ElfanteLeano shares Banatao’s perspective of seeing parents as partners in the educational mission. In her back-to-school message this year, she encouraged students at Olympian – it holds true for all students – to reflect on their goals and to strive to pursue personal excellence. She sees her role as principal as supporting and encouraging her students as they explore
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education
different possibilities and grow as learners. Together with her staff, ElfanteLeano appreciates the opportunity to work together with parents to help every student reach his or her potential and goals. “The foundation of our future accomplishments will be found in the power of our combined efforts and the strength of our synergy,” she said in her school message. “Our partnership is of critical importance. I feel fortunate to be part of a school culture focused on student learning, a commitment to high expectations, innovation and collaboration. Let’s have a great year!” That focus on making it a great year also rings true for Fuentes, a 12th grade U.S. Government teacher at Eastlake High. The Chula Vista High grad enjoys the chance to interact with students just about to complete their stay in high school. But he does have some spot-on advice for those students in their final year.
The foundation of our future accomplishments will be found in the power of our combined efforts and the strength of our synergy.
• It’s Senior Year. Last shot to make it count. Try everything! Go to a football game, go to the homecoming dance, to prom, LuWow...last chance to experience it. Do it. • Don’t let Senioritis take hold of you! You started off excited and strong make sure to finish off the same way! Show up to class! • Apply for Colleges, and or post secondary options! Here, locally and away...you never know if you are going to like them if you don’t visit/do research on them and or apply. • Apply for FASFA – even if you think that your family makes too much to qualify. You never know, and it is also how colleges get a hold of you for financial aid packages for their school, so do it! • Learn from everyone, have fun. It’s going to be a fast year! Enjoy it for what you make of it. Best wishes to all our community’s students on this new school year. We’ll be watching to see the many wonderful accomplishments and successes you enjoy. my.
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crafts By Marietta Minjares
Scrapbooking tips for beginners If you find yourself with little time to devote and a desire to do something with those photos accumulating on your desktop computer, here are some tips from a busy working mom to help keep the process simple.
I
f you enjoy taking pictures and, more importantly, admiring the photos beyond occasional glances on your phone or computer screen, then you may consider creating scrapbooks. Before going digital, I remember how I couldn’t wait to finish a roll of film, only to wait days for the pictures to be developed and then anxiously open the package of prints hoping my subjects’ eyes would be open, the lighting just right and the subject framed just perfectly. As a child, I was so eager to dis-
Marietta (right) and her mother-in-law Ann Minjares show off newly completed pages
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play my photos that my mom used to buy me the “old school” photo albums with the plastic pages that pull back that could only fit three to four pictures on each page. Unsatisfied with just the photos on the page, I would find myself cutting out sayings, headlines, phrases and pictures from Seventeen magazine to stick in my plain photo albums to give the pages a bit more flair. This is likely where my interest in scrapbooking began. Being an occasional scrapbooker – unlike some of my dearest friends who are obsessed “croppers” – take my word for it that you don’t have to go overboard and spend hundreds of dollars on supplies, have an artistic eye or have everything perfectly organized to enjoy this hobby. If you’re like me, you might decide to create a scrapbook because you have a growing collection of photos from memorable events such as vacations, the birth of a child or your family’s annual holiday activities. If you find yourself with little time to devote and a desire to do something with those photos accumulating on your desktop computer, here are some tips from a busy working mom to help keep the process simple. Before purchasing any supplies or a scrapbook, I recommend selecting the photos you want to include in your album. Then, take a trip to your local craft store. It is easy to get overwhelmed
scrapbooking
The initial motivation for a scrapbooker to continue the hobby is from the pride felt after creating a first product. For some, an even bigger motivator is the opportunity to socialize with friends or family members. While many croppers get together at someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home for an evening, others meet at a local
To get some ideas for pages, do not hesitate to pick up a scrapbooking magazine at the craft store, as well. Starting with these basic supplies and an album set allows a first time cropper to get their feet wet before diving into the hobby completely. by the aisles of ribbon, stamps, scrapbooks, and more supplies than you ever need to get started. Many beginners start by purchasing a boxed set that includes an album, paper, and sometimes pre-designed pages that only need a few embellishments and some personalized titles or sayings. Every scrapper has their own system of organizing their photos and pages and each one is right if it works for that individual. The
only other supplies that are necessary are your photos, an instrument for cutting and trimming and adhesives (tape runner). To get some ideas for pages, do not hesitate to pick up a scrapbooking magazine at the craft store, as well. Starting with these basic supplies and an album set allows a first time cropper to get their feet wet before diving into the hobby completely.
scrapbook store or even participate in weekend retreats. Some scrapbooking stores offer â&#x20AC;&#x153;croppingâ&#x20AC;? sessions, charging a nominal fee for a table, use of cropping tools and some refreshments. Many weekend retreats are coordinated by scrapbook consultants who often rent homes designed specifically for scrapbook retreats such as the Scrapbook Inn in North County, or coordinate with bed and breakfast venues in the local mountain areas such as Apples in Big Bear. For those interested in scrapbooking, do not hesitate to search the Internet for craft stores, supplies and ideas. You might be surprised what you can create and how your family members and friends will enjoy your albums just as much as you. my.
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calendar August 2012
out and about August 2-5
August 4
August 9
August 11
Sweetwater District’s VAPA Department Presents West Side Story at the Ruth Chapman Performing Arts Center at Eastlake High; Tickets $10 adults, $5 Students & Seniors; Box office opens one hour prior to show starting; Aug 2 & 3 @7pm, Aug 4 & 5 @ 3pm; www.suhsdk12.ca.us/vapa
Community Carnival presented by Pride Martial Arts – 11am-3pm at the Shops at San Miguel Ranch; Carnival games, dunk tank, prizes; prideata.com
Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce Tradeshow & Mixer –5:30-7:30pm; hosted by Bonita Golf Club, 5540 Sweetwater Rd.; (619) 4206603 or www.chulavistachamber.org
Xavier the X-Man Cruise for Cause Blood & Bone Marrow Drive – 10am-4pm at Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Rd; Cars, entertainment, kids’ zone, blood donation and bone marrow registry; www.magic925.com
August 12
August 19 & 20
August 25
Chula Vista Lemon Festival – 11am-7pm at Third Avenue, between E Street and Roosevelt; Three stages for live entertainment, craft booths, beer garden, food, and lemons; www.thirdavenuevillage.com
Auditions for The Sugar Witch – 7pm at OnStage Playhouse, 291 Third Ave., Auditions are by appointment only from 7-9:30pm each evening; Actors encouraged to bring a headshot and current theatrical résumé; www.onstageplayhouse.org/ auditions
10th Annual Chula Vista Rotary Wine & Food Event – 6-9pm at Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Rd.; Tickets $50 for samplings of nearly 50 food, wine, beer & spirit vendors; www.chulavistarotary.org
Chula Vista Challenge – Triathlon, Duathlon and Kids Race; Starting at the Bay and heading through the Olympic Training Center; Registration deadline August 10; chulavistachallenge.com
Dodgeball Tournament – 5pm at St. Mark’s Campus, 580 Hilltop Drive; Entrance fee $2; Youth and Young Adult brackets; southbayyouth@gmail.com
“Pajama Party Madness” – 5-9pm – Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy; Kids ages 3-12; $25 per student; $35 day of event; Wear your pj’s for a fun and cozy night of pretend sleepover fun; (619) 585-1133, www.neishas.com
August 26 5th Annual Bike The Bay – Scenic community bike ride along San Diego Bay, including over the Coronado Bay Bridge; All riding levels welcome; www.bikethebay.net
August 31 Family Movie Night – The Lorax – 8pm at Montevalle Rec Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Rd; Free admission, snacks and drinks available; Beach chairs, blankets and sweaters recommended; foundryotayranch.org
Otay Ranch Town Center Farmer’s Market – every Tuesday 4-8pm Eastlake Business Association – every Monday 11:30am-1pm at Tacos & Tarros; eastlakebusiness.org
Kids Ready To Read – every Thursday 11:15am at Otay Ranch Branch Library; Interactive storytime program for kids 3 and younger; www.chulavistalibrary.com
SAVE THE DATE Sept 2 Village Vibes Concert Series – 4-6pm at Memorial Park, 373 Park Way; Free concert series presented by Third Avenue Village Association; www.thirdavenuevillage.com
Please note events and times are subject to change.
august 2012 my hometown 21
on topic: education
Learning…There’s An App for That! By Antwon Lincoln
A
nother school year is almost here. As we prepare for the end of summer, I reflect on what my kids have experienced in this short time – pool, iPad, sports, iPad, family picnic, iPod Touch. It seems like these little “iDevices” have taken over my home and have captured the attention of everyone. With three kids from 7 to 12, it is hard to manage iDevice time. However I cannot blame them for their desire to experience these addictive devices. I was the one who brought them home from the Apple Store. Technology is a part of the everyday experience of today’s youth. Look anywhere and their eyes are fixated. Technology for kids has come a long way since the Atari 1200. For the cost
of “free” the latest app can take you to another world filled with “Angry Birds” and “Words with Friends.” These small and yet simple games are exciting and pleasingly addictive. But they can also be used for “good”. As a technology coordinator for the Chula Vista Elementary School District, I see technology being implemented throughout the district. From Arroyo Vista Elementary to Feaster Elementary, students are using mobile devices to extend learning. Learning has truly become addictive with mobile devices. But this is not just in the elementary classroom. This wave of technology can be seen on middle school and high school campuses within the Sweetwater Union High School District. Parents who feared their child having back problems due to a 75lb backpack consisting of textbooks will not need to worry anymore. Textbook companies, such as Pearson, are shifting from paper to apps. Textbooks will soon become interactive, intuitive, and addictive. There are over 67,000 education apps available in the App Store. As schools incorporate mobile devices into the curriculum, I wanted to share some education apps that have addictive qualities. Reading App - Great for teaching letter recognition, sight words, and phonics. Bugsy Kindergarten Reading - An essential app for Preschool and Kindergarten students that builds vocabulary, beginning and ending sounds, and vowels. Math App - Math does not have to equal “fear”. These math apps help with math concepts. Learning math has never been so cool. Kahn Academy - If your child struggles with math concepts this app is a must. There are over 3000 videos explaining simple and complex math concepts.
22 my hometown august 2012
on topic: education
Reference Apps - Do you remember looking up words for the correct spelling in a book? The dictionary you know is not the same dictionary of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students. Dictionary.com Dictionary & Thesaurus - A comprehensive tool that is an essential for students. Productivity App - Organizational skills is a must for student success. MyHomework - This app provides an effective way to track classroom assignments. Brain Stimulation App - Educational games allow students to play and build concentration stamina. Sticker Factory for the iPad - Keeps the mind sharp with a fun matching app and builds hand eye coordination.
eBooks Apps - Ebooks brings interactive-play to story time. The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore An ebook you and your child will want to experience over and over again. This ebook creates a â&#x20AC;&#x153;wow!â&#x20AC;? experience. These apps are addictive. But they also challenge and prepare young minds for the school year. I encourage you to explore the education app category in the App Store. Download one or all of the above apps. With the right education app, your child will become addicted to learning. You also may want to buy another iPad. my. Antwon Lincoln is a Chula Vista resident and works as the Industrial Technology & Media Coordinator for the Chula Vista Elementary School District.
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The Kunz Family T
he story for many military families who arrive in San Diego from back east is that the instant they experience the weather and the wonderful local communities they never think about returning to their former hometowns. And while that scenario rings true for lots of local families, for EastLake’s Kunz family the connection to this area didn’t happen immediately on arrival. But once it did, that bond became as strong as any family’s. Joe Kunz serves as a nuclear operator in the Navy supervising the operations and maintenance of the two nuclear reactors on board the ship. He joined the military in 1999 after seeing a buddy enlist about six months before. The New York native headed to Chicago for nine weeks of boot camp and then to Charleston, South Carolina for a year. He met wife Tanya back in New York when he was sent by the Navy to complete additional training for his position. The two married in 2004 and welcomed son Joey into their family in 2005 while living in Virginia. Youngest son Anthony came a couple years later as the family called South Carolina home. In early 2009, Joe headed out to San Diego on his own as the family stayed to oversee the sale of the house and pack up everything. The family arrived in June. “In July, I said goodbye to them for eight months,” Joe said about his first deployment in his new homeport. “San Diego is a main base for the Navy and people are always wanting to come 24 my hometown august 2012
Photo courtesy of Jorge Cortez (619) 972-5180 www.eastlakephotography.com
here. When I came back, I had all these questions about what Tanya thought about the area.” Tanya admits that raising two young boys in a new city was tough with Joe gone, but it did give her a chance to do lots of sight seeing. She relied on the help of other military families and the Navy’s Family Readiness Group as it brought families together that were experiencing deployment. Still, living on base at Coronado didn’t feel like home. “When Joe came back, I told him I thought we should go back to the east coast,” Tanya shared. “I loved the weather, but I didn’t think we could live out here. I knew Joe didn’t want to leave California and so we looked around. We visited some friends who lived in Otay Ranch and I really liked the area. It was like a little bubble.” The Kunz have called EastLake Greens home now for several years and seem destined to stay. Both sons are active in local youth sports leagues with dad Joe coaching each one. Joey, 7, attends Olympic View Elementary. His brother Anthony began kindergarten at the neighborhood school on July 25 – his birthday. They both enjoy all the local parks and the community pools when not playing football, baseball or basketball. For Joey, this is now home. “We don’t want to leave EastLake,” he said. “It’s the funnest place we’ve been to.” my.
School News Southwestern College Is On the Move By Dr. Melinda Nish, Superintendent/President
A
s we kick off a new academic year this month, Southwestern College is on a path of renewed prosperity. If you’ve traveled by the campus lately, you’ll see we’ve widened the streets leading into campus. Earth movers are also working daily at DeVore Stadium, prepping the area for a new four-story Field House. Our student athletes will now be taking classes and training in a modern, spacious facility that will overlook a renovated stadium. Construction of a central plant that will meet the heating and air conditioning needs of this building and future construction on campus is also under way. While we invest more than $90 million of Proposition R funds into this first phase of construction, our next phases will be guided by new educational and facilities master plans. As we all know, the careers our students will be seeking continue to evolve. As the South Bay’s only public institution of higher education, we are committed to helping our more than 24,400 students achieve their educational goals. We offer more than 320 certificate and degree programs at our main Chula Vista campus and four Higher Education Centers. The educational master plan will help us further define the programs we offer. The past seven months have been busy for me as the new Superintendent/ President of Southwestern College. The community has welcomed me so warmly. Many have told me their personal stories of attending Southwestern, or of their children currently enrolled here. Having just completed our celebration of the college’s 50th anniversary, we have a rich tradition on which to build the next 50 years. It is my goal to tap the resources of the
South Bay to improve the educational experience we provide to our students. Within the next six months, I want to host a workforce and economic development summit that brings together local businesses to study job trends and find the resources to enhance our course offerings. I want to build upon the great partnership with our local K-12 districts to strengthen the transition into community college and beyond. Residents of the South Bay continue to show their strong support for public education, and it is our duty to nurture their investment. A key to advancing our educational mission is ensuring student access to success. In a time of declining funding resources, however, we must fine tune all our processes. In the last few months, we have focused our efforts to evaluating all of our class sections to ensure they maintain enrollment. We are concentrating our funding on the classes that help prepare students for transition to a four-year university. We are also improving our internal data management systems to assess our progress. All these measures continue our goal of continuous improvement. They also help ensure we remain fully accredited. I’m proud to say that last year’s efforts on the part of all members of the Southwestern College educational community not only pulled us out of accreditation probation, we received full accreditation renewal. As a college, we have implemented ongoing reviews of all departments and programs to ensure we maintain the highest standards. Over the next year, we will be increasing our outreach into the community. I have created a new website where I’ll be
writing weekly updates of what’s happening on campus. Here is the link: http://www. swccd.edu/oosp. You can also receive information through the college’s Facebook page or on Twitter at SWC_News. If you have suggestions, or would like to be included in the economic summit, please feel free to email me at cmr@swccd.edu. my. Southwestern College provides vital resources to the South Bay. With your support, we will continue to open the doors to higher education for all residents.
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august 2012 my hometown 25
Amazing new me F
or many committing to a new diet regiment and enjoying initial success represents the easy part. A healthier or reduced calorie intake plan combined with an increase in exercise would enable most of us to see a drop in weight. The challenge, however, has always been to keep those unwanted pounds off when the strict diet restrictions end and daily decisions on what to eat are once again your own. Rick Micheri and Karin Margolis, business partners behind a new weight management program in Chula Vista called Amazing New Me, know firsthand the challenges associated with trying to trim down and become healthier. It is that personal experience with weight loss combined with a strong desire to help others that fuels their efforts to grow the business plan to include the local community. Micheri spearheaded the launch of the business in Rancho Bernardo in 2010, returning to San Diego County where he grew up. Margolis, one of Micheri’s clients, heads up the new office that opened in east Chula Vista a mere five months ago. Together, they hope to help people feel better about themselves while becoming healthier as well. “We’re excited to be in Chula Vista,” said Micheri, who has lost a total of 80 pounds and has kept it off for more than two years. “Amazing New Me is a new look at how to lose weight. We focus on reduction of fat inches, re-educating clients on how their body works, why it stores fat and how to prevent it from storing fat. We provide all natural supplements taken during the program, paired 26 my hometown august 2012
with proper eating habits and knowledge to build a formula for weight loss success and for maintaining it.” According to Micheri, the Amazing New Me program focuses on three principles of success: 1) Eat often but not enough – eat approximately three to four hours but smaller amounts; 2) Drink your water – at least 60 ounces a day; and 3) Calorie restrictions and addition of their all natural supplements during each weight loss cycle. In addition, the program helps educate clients on what foods they should and should not be eating in order to reach and maintain their goal size (not goal weight). That emphasis on proper eating habits appealed to Margolis right from the start and it’s a big part of what drives her involvement even now. In the Chula Vista office, Margolis meets with clients and personally walks them through the program. She says it is huge for her to be able to help other people. “I have done so many diets and weight loss programs before,” she admitted. “This was the most realistic and healthiest way to lose the inches. Right away, I started eating healthier by adding more fruits and vegetables to my diet and avoiding processed foods. I feel healthier because I know what I need to do to live a more healthy lifestyle and I share that with my clients.” my. Amazing New Me 2400 Fenton St, Suite 209, Chula Vista 91914; (619) 630-5335; www.AmazingNewMe.com
My Hometown Mercado CHILD DEVELOPMENT
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URGENT CARE
Personalized, one-on-one speech therapy services in the comfort of your own home. Research-based bilingual therapy for children and adults. Private pay only. Letitia A. Stanton-Aicher MS, CCC-SLP
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VISION
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DINING
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Authentic Italian Cuisine With A Modern Twist. Come enjoy delicious food and exquisite wines in our beautiful dining room or watch a game in our bar! Reserve our elegant private room or patio for your next group function. Daily happy hour, open seven days a week.
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Having a bad hair day? No need to panic! Studio MG Salon in EastLake offers the latest styles and trends. Specialties include the popular Keratin Complex Smoothing treatment, L’Oreal Professional Exclusive, hair extensions, nails, qualified color professionals and glamorous special occasion styling. Call Studio MG Salon today for your next trim or complete makeover. 2240 Otay Lakes Rd. Ste 301 Chula Vista, CA 91915. Follow us on Facebook.
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For the past 20 years, Pack & Bianes Vision Care has offered state-of-theart eyecare for adults, children and infants. Look to us for the latest in contact lenses, eyewear, vision therapy or Lasik. We are providers for several insurance plans such as VSP & Tricare. Dr. Pack habla español.
Celebrating 20 years of Vision
(619) 216-3937
www.packandbianesvision.com
june 2012
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